Last week I had a teenage client whose relationship with his parents is struggling with lack of communication, lack of trust, and comfort. A typical day would sound something like this:

Mom: How was your day?

Client: Fine.

Mom: Did you learn anything at school today?

Client: No.

Mom: Well, what did you do then?

Client: Nothing.

And then it would lead to the daily argument. The conversation sounded the same whether mom or dad asked the questions. Many people struggle with communication with their teenager.

I gave the family homework for the week. For the client: He is to elaborate with more than one word answers. Parents: Try not to yell in reaction for the flat answers. Therefore, they would have conversations and help build the communication. I am anxious to see how this has worked for them within the week. If you struggle with communication within your family, I challenge you to listen, elaborate and have patience.